Economic Evaluation of School-Based Health Centers: A Community Guide Systematic Review

This 2014 economic systematic review analyzed the costs of school-based health centers (SBHCs) compared to their benefits. Twenty-two studies were included in the systematic review. SBHCs were determined to provide economic benefit at both the individual and societal levels. Individual benefits included reduced spending on health care. Societal benefits accrued in the forms of lowered health care costs, averted productivity loss, and reduced hospitalization. Overall, this study confirms that the financial and economic benefits of having a SBHC exceed the operating costs of that center.